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. 2013 Jan 7;8(1):1.
doi: 10.1186/2049-6958-8-1.

Communication in a medical setting: can standards be improved?

Silvia Rossi Ferrario  1 , George Cremona
Affiliations

Communication in a medical setting: can standards be improved?

Silvia Rossi Ferrario et al. Multidiscip Respir Med. .

Abstract

Do standards exist to improve communication in a medical setting? What are the minimal requirements to make our communication with patients and their family clear and simple? International literature, as well as psychology, philosophy, and even our brain structure offer ways to improve communication. We reflected about what is preventing effective communication in the medical setting and how/from where should we set about improving it.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Approaches to communication with family and patients: VALUE and SPIKES.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Summary of the minimal requirements for a better medical communication. *Careful medical communication is always important: time dedicated, abilities involved, context and physician’s/team’s attitudes should receive the same attention.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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